Effects of Spinal De-loading Exercise Program on Spinal Muscle Endurance, Working Posture, and Musculoskeletal Discomfort among University Bus Drivers

Objectives: Professional drivers have a significant prevalence of musculoskeletal issues such as LBP as a result of extended sitting and vibration exposure. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of a spinal de-loading exercise program on spinal muscle endurance, working posture, and musculoskeletal discomfort among university bus drivers. Methods: 52 subjects who fulfilled the selection criteria were taken and divided into two groups. The experimental group (Group A, n=26) received a spinal de-loading exercise program and the control group (Group B, n=26) received conventional physiotherapy exercises. Each group participated in the intervention thrice a week for six weeks. Findings: Statistical analysis showed significant improvement in both the groups, however more so in the experimental group. Comparing Group A to Group B, notable gains were seen. Group A experienced a 45.8% decrease in discomfort, a 56% decrease in pain, and a 42.4% improvement in working posture. In Group A, the transverse abdominis and multifidus muscles' endurance improved by 58.5% and 42.8%, respectively. Compared to Group B, these improvements were noticeably better. Novelty: This is the first study to design and assess an exercise program for university bus drivers that explicitly targets spinal de-loading. Compared to traditional physiotherapy exercises, the program substantially improved working posture, spinal muscular endurance, and the reduction of musculoskeletal pain and discomfort. Keywords: Drivers, Pain, Endurance, Posture, Spine, Discomfort, bus driver, back pain, De­loading exercises